Background

Instituto Ecológico Caatinga: A Sanctuary for Semiarid Biodiversity

Discover the Instituto Ecológico Caatinga, a center for preserving Brazil's unique semiarid biome, near the Serra da Capivara National Park.

The Instituto Ecológico Caatinga is dedicated to preserving the unique Caatinga biome through ecological restoration, native plant production, and environmental education. Located near Serra da Capivara National Park, it offers a glimpse into the efforts to conserve Brazil's semiarid ecosystem.

A brief summary to Instituto Ecológico Caatinga

  • PI 140 (BR-324) Estrada Parque Baixão das Andorinhas Serra Vermelha, São Raimundo Nonato, State of Piauí, 64770-000, BR
  • +551198507-3811
  • Tuesday 2 pm-6 pm
  • Wednesday 2 pm-6 pm
  • Thursday 2 pm-6 pm
  • Friday 2 pm-6 pm
  • Saturday 2 pm-6 pm
  • Sunday 2 pm-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the rainy season (December to May) to see the Caatinga in full bloom.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Serra da Capivara National Park to explore the region's rich archaeological history.
  • Learn about the native plants of the Caatinga and their adaptations to the semiarid environment.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Instituto Ecológico Caatinga is located on the PI 140 (BR-324) highway, also known as Estrada Parque Baixão das Andorinhas Serra Vermelha, near São Raimundo Nonato. From São Raimundo Nonato, head towards the Serra da Capivara National Park. The institute is located on the road to Baixão das Andorinhas, one of the park's most scenic areas. Taxis and rental cars are available in São Raimundo Nonato. Be aware that roads in the region can be rough.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Instituto Ecológico Caatinga via public transport, first take a bus to São Raimundo Nonato. From the bus terminal in São Raimundo Nonato , taxis are available to take you to the institute, which is located on the PI 140 highway towards Serra da Capivara National Park. The bus trip from Serra da Capivara National Park to São Raimundo Nonato typically costs R$10-15 BRL. A taxi from the bus terminal to the institute will cost extra.

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Discover more about Instituto Ecológico Caatinga

The Instituto Ecológico Caatinga (IEC) stands as a vital force in the preservation of the Caatinga, a unique and highly threatened biome found exclusively in Brazil. Situated near the stunning Serra da Capivara National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the institute focuses on ecological restoration, sustainable resource management, and environmental education. At the heart of the IEC's work is the Mata Branca Nursery, which cultivates seedlings of 40 native Caatinga species. These seedlings are donated to ecological restoration projects throughout the semiarid region, helping to rehabilitate degraded lands and promote biodiversity. The institute also supports the restoration of areas within the Serra da Capivara National Park, contributing to the conservation of this archaeologically and ecologically significant area. The Caatinga biome is characterized by its resilience to drought and its remarkable biodiversity, including unique species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, bees and plants. However, it faces significant threats from deforestation, unsustainable land use, and climate change. The Instituto Ecológico Caatinga plays a crucial role in mitigating these threats and promoting a sustainable future for the region. Visitors to the Instituto Ecológico Caatinga can learn about the Caatinga ecosystem, the challenges it faces, and the ongoing efforts to protect it. While primarily a research and conservation organization, the IEC offers an opportunity to witness firsthand the dedication and innovation driving the preservation of this vital Brazilian biome.

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